Local Goa News

Sunday, June 12, 2016

Over 300 come out in support of Chapora riverfront project

MAPUSA : In order to extend support to proposed Chapora riverfront development project, over 300 people came together at Tar-Siolim for a public meeting on Sunday.
The meeting, organised by the supporters of the project, aimed at creating more awareness on the proposed development. It was attended by elected members of panchayat of Siolim, former sarpanch and locals. Recently, the project had faced some opposition and a section had approached the National Green Tribunal at Pune.
Addressing the people, BJP Siolim block president Narayan Mandrekar said that “it is a legal project with all permissions. Under the project, beautification work will be undertaken,” adding, “There are some people, who are opposing it, because elections are approaching.”
He further said that “we have elected our MLA and again we have to bring him back. We need to have faith in him that he will not do anything against the will of his constituents.”
“Some have challenged the project before the National Green Tribunal. The matter was heard and more documents have been sought by the court,” Mandrekar said.
Zilla parishad member Vasudev Korgaonkar said that “the entire project has been considered for the benefit of local people and it was gone ahead with after taking the people into confidence. Opposition is envious about the BJP-led government which is working on all fronts.”
Digambar Agarwadkar, former sarpanch of Oxel said that “people of Siolim are lucky to have such a project, protection wall for the river is important as soil erosion will be prevented and small-time businesses will benefit.”
He said that “two religious structures in the vicinity of the project will be relocated. We are not against any religion and urge people not to fall prey to opposition who are spreading wrong information about project.”
Rama Parab, Oxel sarpanch claimed that “the entire project is eco-friendly and it will beautify the village,” adding, “all approvals have been obtained for the project by the government.”